The shocking news of Gerald Levert's unexpected passing sent waves of sadness around the globe last November. A slight sense of relief followed shortly when it was announced that his final studio album, In My Songs, would be released in early 2007. In My Songs is now available to the public and brings with it bittersweet emotions. In one instance, it's great to hear Gerald's distinctive sound but is also suddenly sorrowful remembering that he won't appear onstage to make these special songs come alive.

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The shocking news of Gerald Levert's unexpected passing sent waves of sadness around the globe last November. A slight sense of relief followed shortly when it was announced that his final studio album, In My Songs, would be released in early 2007. In My Songs is now available to the public and brings with it bittersweet emotions. In one instance, it's great to hear Gerald's distinctive sound but is also suddenly sorrowful remembering that he won't appear onstage to make these special songs come alive.

The first voice heard on In My Songs belongs to Eddie Levert, Gerald's infamous music legend father. Eddie speaks briefly and warmly, offering the listener insight into the pride that Gerald experienced while creating this collection of songs. In My Songs is a blend of uptempo songs and ballads reminiscent of those that earned Gerald the "Teddy Bear" nickname. The title track expresses Gerald's hope to experience the magnitude of love in his personal life that he often sang about in his heartfelt ballads. Gerald was never one to fail at delivering big and hitting hard when it came to ballads. He most certainly does not disappoint with songs like "Deep As It Goes" "Hang In There" and "Sweeter."

"DJ Don't" is a feel good song that takes one to the middle of the dance floor while beckoning to the DJ that there's a need to work off weeklong stresses, so the the music needs to remain upbeat for a little while.

Closing out In My Songs is a song entitled "Is This The Way To Heaven," which illicits a cautious listen initially based on the title before knowing the context of the song. However, there is no sense of anguish found in this beautiful song, which speaks of a pre-marital couple fighting against temptation and vowing to savor that special romantic interlude on the night of the wedding.

Though In My Songs is Gerald Levert's final studio album, his father has assured the world that Gerald had enough music in the can for many albums to come. So this is not the last of Gerald's signature sound that music lovers will come to treasure and enjoy from their dearly departed brother.

In My Songs is a worthy addition to Gerald Levert's discography and will most certainly find a home with longtime Gerald Levert supporters and those looking to add it to their keepsake collections.